10 Questions to Answer Before 2025

In December 2018, I answered 10 reflection questions that Justin Sua posted as a prompt on his Instagram. This also happened to be the first year of Wicked Iron Strength (it was Wicked Iron Strength & Conditioning at that point). I immediately knew that this was something small but mighty, and I would be doing it each year after- and I have been. I’ve changed some of the questions in the past few years, and I have to say they just get better and better.

These end of year questions will help you reflect on 2024 and give you direction as you enter into 2025. I guarantee that if you set some time aside to answer these wholeheartedly, there’s no way that you’ll not end your year feeling proud and enter into the new year feeling empowered and like you have clarity.

You can keep these to yourself, but I encourage you to share your answers with those close to you. Yes, this is vulnerable and uncomfortable… it also leads to really cool shit.

Grab your journal or pull up a note in your phone- here we go:

1. What happened this year that I’m grateful for and proud of?

Expressing gratitude is a powerful way to acknowledge the positive aspects of our lives. As Brene Brown says, “I don't have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it's right in front of me if I'm paying attention and practicing gratitude.” Take a moment to reflect on the moments, people, or experiences that filled your heart with gratitude. Pride can stem from so many different areas- and it’s often felt after doing hard, uncertain, and uncomfortable things. It’s often created after choosing to show up for yourself in ways that benefit the future you or align with your values and goals, especially when it feels hard.

2. What hard things did I learn from or overcome this year?

Resilience shines through challenges. Skills and experience are cultivated through the hard. Growth is rooted in tolerating discomfort. It’s easy to think about the negative or what didn’t get done. Don’t sweep the things you’ve overcome under the rug- these all lend to your strength, resilience, confidence, and sense of self.

3. What did 2024 teach me?

Life is a continuous teacher. Explore the wisdom gained from ALL the experiences that shaped your year. Think about what you know now that you didn’t in January. 

4. Who positively impacted my life this year?

Acknowledge the individuals who played a significant role in making your year brighter or impacted your growth. Expressing gratitude towards them in any way strengthens the bonds we share and reminds you of the support systems you have and the connections you’ve created. 

5. How am I different from the person I was in January?

Personal growth is a beautiful journey. Reflect on the changes within yourself—mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and physically. What transformations have you undergone? What shifts did you create? What cool shit did you do?

6. What relationships do I need to strengthen in 2025?

Relationships are the cornerstone of our well-being. Identify the connections you'd like to nurture and grow in the coming year. Meaningful connections elevate our lives.

7. Who do I want to be in 2025?

Create a blueprint for the person you want to become. What qualities, characteristics, and values will you embody in the coming year? What habits does this version of you choose to practice? Paint a picture of your future self. I encourage you not to write things like, “I hope to…” or “I want to…” and instead write things like “I will…” and “2025 me is….” Get specific in how exactly you will show up, especially in the areas that will challenge you.

8. What do I need to start doing?

Consider the actions that will contribute to your growth. What new habits, behaviors, mindsets or endeavors will propel you forward on your journey?

9. What do I need to stop doing?

Letting go is as crucial as starting anew. Identify habits, mindsets, thoughts, language, or behaviors that no longer serve your well-being. What will you release to make room for positive change?

10. What do I need to keep doing?

Celebrate the habits and practices that have brought growth, happiness, and success. What consistent actions will continue to enhance your life in 2025?

As we say peace out to 2024, let's carry these reflections into the new year with openness, willingness, and a sense of purpose. Remember, growth is a continuous process, and each step is a victory if you let it be.

I’d love to hear about your answers if you get the urge to share and I’d be happy to share mine if you’re interested- email me: meryl@wickedironstrength.com

Wishing you a positive transition into the new year!